Perhaps the most intriguing story is what comes next for the Sacramento Kings. This is a critical year for general manager Vlade Divac, who is quickly approaching his self-imposed deadline for team improvement. He has two promising rookies in Marvin Bagley III and Harry Giles on a roster loaded with young potential.

When does potential turn to progress? The clues could start to come in the preseason, which tips off Monday, Oct. 1, in Phoenix. Jason Anderson and Noel Harris will report on the signs — good and bad — as the Kings look to shake the burden of the NBA’s longest playoff drought.

We will also keep you posted on key storylines surrounding the Giants, A’s, Raiders, Warriors and more, with hand-picked supplemental coverage from the Bay Area News Group, Associated Press and other services.